Lead Specialist – International Processes and Engagement

About CDRI

The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) is a global partnership of national governments, UN agencies, multilateral development banks, private sector, and academic institutions. It aims to promote the resilience of infrastructure systems against climate and disaster risks to ensure sustainable development.

Strategic Context

CDRI’s Strategic Work Plan 2023–2026, CDRI focuses on:

• Building a strong coalition with global leadership.
• Advancing research and peer learning to promote risk-informed policies.
• Enhancing the capacity of governments, private enterprises and communities to implement resilient infrastructure and recovery programmes at scale.

The CDRI Secretariat, based in New Delhi, coordinates and implements the Coalition’s strategic priorities and activities.

Role Purpose

CDRI is seeking an experienced professional to serve as Lead Specialist – International Processes and Engagement to strengthen its global advocacy for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (DRI). The role will involve positioning CDRI as a key voice in international negotiations and processes—such as the UNFCCC, G20, and other high-level platforms—and supporting members in aligning their infrastructure priorities with global resilience goals.

The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of global governance systems, experience in multilateral negotiations, and a track record of working in complex, cross-cultural environments.

Reporting Line

Reports to the Director – Advocacy & Communications, CDRI.

1. International Engagement

• Develop and implement a strategic approach to enhance CDRI’s visibility and influence in global policy processes.
• Represent CDRI in international forums, conferences, and climate-related negotiations (e.g. UNFCCC, COPs).

2. Member Support

• Design systems to enable CDRI member countries to advocate effectively for DRI in global platforms.
• Provide technical assistance to members on international negotiations related to infrastructure, resilience, and adaptation.

3. Policy Advocacy & Positioning

• Lead the development of position papers, submissions, and policy inputs to influence international dialogues.
• Ensure CDRI’s agenda is represented in key multilateral agreements and processes, aligning with SDGs, the Paris Agreement, and SFDRR.

4. Stakeholder Engagement & Awareness Building

• Build trust and strategic relationships with global stakeholders including UN agencies, MDBs, and government representatives.
• Help establish CDRI’s leadership in global conversations on infrastructure resilience and risk reduction.

5. Monitoring & Reporting

• Track international developments, negotiations, and agreements relevant to DRI.
• Identify new opportunities for CDRI engagement and provide timely analysis to senior leadership.

6. Internal Capacity Building

• Build institutional knowledge and capacity within the CDRI Secretariat to engage effectively in international diplomacy.
• Provide training, mentorship, and briefings to staff on international policy trends and opportunities.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in diplomacy, international relations, public policy, international law, global governance, political science, or related fields.
• International academic exposure is desirable.

Experience

• At least 10 years of relevant work with national governments, international organisations, or multilateral institutions.
• Demonstrated experience in international negotiations, global advocacy campaigns, or multilateral policy development.
• Experience working in or with South Asia and an understanding of India’s policy and diplomatic landscape is an advantage.
• International project experience across at least 5 countries and 2 UN geographic regions is required for international hire eligibility.

Skills & Competencies

• Deep knowledge of global governance and multilateral systems (e.g. UNFCCC, G20, SDG processes).
• Proven ability to build and sustain strategic partnerships in complex, multi-stakeholder settings.
• Strong diplomatic skills, cultural sensitivity, and ability to work in diverse international teams.
• Excellent writing, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Strategic thinker with ability to deliver results under pressure.
• Comfortable working across cross-functional and interdisciplinary teams.

Language Requirements

• Fluency in English (oral and written) is essential.
• Proficiency in another UN language (especially French or Spanish) is an asset.

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